Lexus Hybrid Drive
Three models in the Lexus range – the GS 450h, the flagship LS 600h and the new RX 450h - are united by one breakthrough innovation Lexus Hybrid Drive. Lexus Hybrid Drive offers both luxury and high-performance with the satisfaction of increased fuel efficiency and greatly reduced emissions. Second-generation Lexus Hybrid Drive technology powers the SUV RX 450h, ensuring seamless power, even more impressive fuel efficiency and emissions levels unrivalled by any other vehicle in its class.
This forward-thinking technology gives more to the driver while having less impact
on the environment. It works, essentially, by combining a powerful, near-silent and clean running electric motor and a highly advanced petrol engine in each vehicle. Each vehicle can either run on petrol only, electric only or a combination of the two. This means that the vehicle is always at optimum efficiency, whether you’re driving slowly, cruising on the motorway or overtaking. When running solely on electric power, of course, there are no emissions at all and fuel consumption is zero.
What’s more, unless there are exceptional circumstances, the battery will never run down because the system always keeps it fully charged. One way it does this is
through regenerative braking. Braking creates heat which is normally lost. this system, however, captures that energy and converts it into power for the battery. In addition, this results in reduced wear on the brake discs and pads. Excess power from the engine can also be used to recharge the battery.
Lexus Hybrid Drive is proven and long-established Lexus technology. In some ways, it’s actually simpler than conventional systems. For instance, there’s no starter motor, clutch, alternator or transfer case – so there’s less to maintain and,of course, go wrong.
The Lexus Hybrid Drive Range At-a-Glance
GS 450h
– Max. system output: 292 Din hp (218 kw)
– 0–62mph (sec): 5.9
– Combined fuel consumption (mpg): 35.8
– Combined CO2 emissions (g/km): 185
– Best-in-class company car tax band from 22%
– From £40,985 OTR
More details on the GS 450h
RX 450h
– Max. system output: 299 Din hp (220kw)
– 0-62mph (sec): 7.9
– Combined fuel consumption (mpg): 44.8
– Combined CO2 emissions: (g/km): 148
– BIK tax rate: 14% (2009/10)
– From £41,600 OTR
More details on the RX 450h
LS 600h
– Max. system output: 375 Din hp (290 kw)
– 0–62mph (sec): 6.3
– Combined fuel consumption (mpg): 30.4
– Combined CO2 emissions (g/km): 219
– Best-in-class company car tax band from 28%
– From £84,735 OTR
More details on the LS 600h